SCHOOL BUSES: REVISE MAXIMUM WIDTH AND

EXEMPT FROM SEASONAL WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS

Senate Bill 915 as reported from House committee w/o amendment

Sponsor:  Sen. Tom Casperson

House Committee:  Transportation and Infrastructure

Senate Committee:  Transportation

Complete to 6-7-18                                                                 (Enacted as Public Act 273 of 2018)

SUMMARY:

Senate Bill 915 would amend two sections in the division of the Michigan Vehicle Code that governs the size, weight, and load of vehicles.

The bill would add “school bus” to the list of vehicles whose outer body width may not exceed 102 inches. It would also provide that, for a school bus, in addition to the existing list, an appurtenance of 6 inches or less beyond the 102 inches would not be a violation. (A person who violates these provisions is responsible for a civil infraction.)

Additionally, the bill would exempt school buses from seasonal restrictions on weight allowances on roads. The Code prescribes the maximum axle load allowable on roads, with those maximum axle loads reduced during the months of March, April, and May. The bill would add school buses to the list of vehicles exempt from those provisions (joining vehicles transporting agricultural commodities, and public utility vehicles under certain circumstances).

The bill would take effect 90 days after enactment.

MCL 257.717 and 257.722

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill has no direct fiscal impact on the state or local units of government.

POSITIONS:

A representative of the Michigan Association for Pupil Transportation testified in support of the bill. (5-29-18)

The Michigan Association of School Boards indicated support for the bill. (5-29-18)

The Michigan Department of Transportation has no position on the bill. (5-29-18)

                                                                                         Legislative Analyst:   Jenny McInerney

                                                                                                 Fiscal Analyst:   William E. Hamilton

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.